Irwin Gale

The Litterbug…Charlie Chaplin…Grandpa Gale…

These are just some of the characters that Irwin Gale brought to life for the enjoyment of everyone in Lake County.

After his retirement in 1983 after a 35 year career with the railroad, Irwin Gale unselfishly gave of his time, talents, and his love for children to the community.

As the Eastlake Litterbug, Irwin visited schools, day care centers, and fairs to teach children about keeping their city clean and beautiful. One Continental Cablevision’s “Once Upon a Story”, Grandpa Gale encouraged children to read and visit the library.

In a program know as “Babes”, Irwin was one of the original puppet performers in shows warning young children about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Mr. Gale was the founder of the Eastlake Children’s Theater and its director for more than 17 years.

In addition to all this, Irwin still had time for Little League Baseball, Parades, and countless other community activities. His efforts resulted in his being featured nationally on TV as one of VH-1’s “Good News” Persons and also as Eastlake’s Citizen of the Year.

Irwin Gale passed away in 1994, but his work will live on through the countless children whose lives he has touched.